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Bigfoot Academy

Our Crane Academy & FAQ

Bigfoot Crane Company offers a wide range of high-quality cranes, accessories, and safety equipment designed to meet the demands of your toughest projects.

Who We Are?

At Bigfoot Crane Academy, we are dedicated to providing industry-leading training and certification for crane operators and riggers. Our mission is to elevate safety standards and operational excellence within the crane industry. With a focus on hands-on learning and real-world application, we offer comprehensive courses that equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to operate cranes and lifting equipment confidently and safely. Whether you are just starting in the industry or looking to advance your career, Bigfoot Crane Academy is here to support your professional growth and contribute to safer, more efficient job sites.

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Why Get Your Crane Operator Certification Training From Bigfoot?

Our programs have been meticulously designed by industry leaders, making Bigfoot Crane Academy one of the best crane operator schools in the entire country.

In operation since 2008, we are the oldest private crane training provider in BC.

Rigging training also available.

Our crane training program is supported by Fulford, and BC Crane Safety.

There’s No Better Time To Get Your Crane Operator Certification

Not only do crane operators hold a distinctly coveted position, they are among the highest paid equipment operators in construction. At Bigfoot Crane Academy, we proudly maintain the highest operational and training standards in the industry.

From the moment you step into our academy, we focus on providing you with a detailed training program that enhances your understanding of crane & rigging safety, crane operations, and the industry itself. With our state-of-the-art facility and equipment, you will learn how to operate a number of different cranes.

We’ll also teach you about:

  • Safety Fundamentals and Regulations
  • Communications and Hand Signals
  • Rigging Knowledge
  • Rigging Capacity Chart Interpretation
  • Crane Load Chart Interpretation
  • Pre-Operational Inspections
  • Crane Set-up and Hazard Assessments
  • Crane Operation Knowledge including Service and Maintenance

Testimonials

Crane Trainers

Ralf Notheis

Manager – Bigfoot Crane Academy

With over 3 decades of experience and expertise in the heavy equipment industry Ralf has a solid reputation and impeccable safety record.

Ralf successfully navigated himself with focus, skill and intent through the ranks of some of Canada’s largest crane rental companies. From Apprentice to Red Seal Crane Operator, to Regional Manager and now he is right at home in his role as Manager of the Bigfoot Crane Academy.

This ascent through each position gives Ralf an unparalleled advantage over the competition.  His years of practical experience in combination with his qualifications and dedication to cranes and crane safety is unmatched in the industry. Sharing his knowledge, experience and passion with future Crane Operator’s continues to be extremely rewarding for Ralf, whether the class is in our Crane Academy classroom or Ralf travels to your site – he loves to talk Crane!

If you are looking for superior, first class training call Ralf at 1-877-740-6590.

Ralf Notheis

Manager

Trenton Grover

Lead Instructor

Keith Anglin

Crane and Rigging Instructor

Gage Burton

Simulator Instructor

FAQs About Bigfoot Crane Training

Who is this crane training program for?

Absolutely anyone who is interested in learning to operate a crane! We have had a wide range of students successfully complete our program; from those who have been in construction and trades to those who have never touched heavy machinery in their lives. People with backgrounds in office work, medical professions, food service and construction have all made the choice to boost their career and open themselves up to new opportunities working with cranes.

Our crane training programs vary in cost due to length and requirements. Call our head trainer, Ralf Notheis, to discuss your career goals and he can suggest the appropriate program with pricing. Ralf loves talking cranes, and to those interested in getting involved with cranes – give him a call today!  You can reach Bigfoot Academy at (877) 740-6590. See Course Outlines.

Many of our courses are scheduled monthly but we can also run certain courses on-demand to fit your schedule. If you’re interested in a course, give us a call (877) 740-6590. See Course Outlines.

After completing the classroom and field practical work, your certification assessment will be scheduled for the last day of the course. When you pass your assessment you will be certified and ready to start your new career as a crane operator! To learn more about the certification, please visit: Fulford

Corporate training is one of our specialties. We are privileged to have on-going relationships with many corporations, utilities and government bodies who utilize our training services regularly. We can provide onsite crane and rigging training anywhere in North America with a convenient flat rate per day (travel charges will apply outside of the Lower Mainland area). To learn more about our Corporate training opportunities, please call Bigfoot Academy at (877) 740-6590. See Course Outlines.

At Bigfoot Crane Academy, we maintain a smaller class size, from 1-8 people, which allows us to focus on providing individual assistance throughout the course.

Crane Operators are in demand; While we can’t guarantee job placement, we do regularly receive calls from companies recruiting for new crane operators. We have successfully connected many students with great employers. Investing in your career and continuing education is always a safe bet. Why wait for a modest annual raise when you can take charge of your career and your earning potential? Call Bigfoot Academy today, (877) 740-6590.

To be prepared for class, please bring a calculator, hard hat, safety vest and steel toe boots (should be CSA approved footwear) – and most importantly bring a great attitude ready to learn. Bigfoot Crane Academy will provide everything else. We look forward to seeing you in class!

The Crane Certification Assessment is provided by Fulford Certification, a third party which will administer the final assessment containing both theory and practical components. For more information about Fulford Certification, please visit: Fulford.

Yes. You can register on-line at www.bcacs.ca

Our Crane Academy has a high success rate but if you are unsuccessful on either the theory or practical components in your final assessment, a re-assessment will be scheduled. You will only be required to re-assess for the portion in which you were unsuccessful. There are time limits and fees associated with the reassessment process.

We provide a 30 minute lunch break and two short breaks mid-morning and afternoon.

We love the enthusiasm! But no, there is no prep required prior to taking the course. We prefer that our instructors deliver all the fundamental material so our students receive the most accurate information, in addition to the appropriate application of that information in the field.

Our Courses can be prepaid by Visa, Mastercard, Certified Cheque or Bankdraft. (A credit card convenience fee may apply)